Duke Energy Foundation, along with Duke Energy and its employees, has contributed $33.8 million since 2016 to nonprofit organizations supporting community resilience, emergency preparedness, and disaster relief across seven states. The funding supports a range of initiatives, including training for first responders, provision of lifesaving equipment such as AEDs and drones, development of emergency operations centers and shelters, and community education efforts aimed at vulnerable populations.
The Foundation works with state and local emergency management agencies, national relief organizations, and community nonprofits to tailor support based on each community’s needs. Funding comes from corporate giving, employee donations, volunteer hours, and direct grants.
“When disaster strikes, it’s critical that we respond quickly and show up with humanity,” said Amy Strecker, president of the Duke Energy Foundation. “By supporting the nonprofits and first responders who stand beside our neighbors in their most difficult moments, we help ensure communities have the tools they need to respond and rebuild.”
Recent efforts include over $1 million awarded this year to North Carolina organizations focused on storm preparedness and long-term recovery following Hurricane Helene in 2024. In South Carolina, the annual Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) grant program provided $500,000 in May 2025 to enhance severe weather preparedness. Since its inception four years ago, HERO has distributed $2 million through 137 microgrants.
In Florida, $153,000 was allocated in June to strengthen storm readiness by installing AEDs in public areas, expanding CPR training programs, and providing storm kits for seniors. In Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky this spring, more than $47,000 supported communities recovering from flooding and tornadoes.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support for communities served by Duke Energy customers. The Foundation is funded by company shareholders.
Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., it serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states and operates significant natural gas utilities as well. The company continues to invest in grid upgrades and cleaner energy generation technologies.
More information about the Foundation’s impact can be found at foundation.duke-energy.com/success-in-action.
